The Clearwater Academy International Football team knows how to win. At least, when it comes to 6-man and 8-man football. The team is coming off of back-to-back 8-man football championships in 2014 and 2015. Now, the Knights are taking on their biggest challenge as a program: 11-on-11.

"When you are playing 8-man, it's a lot like arena football," said head coach Jesse Chinchar. "There is a lot of high energy, high scoring, and a lot of fun for the players."

Chinchar and defensive coordinator David Feldman were teammates on the 6- man championship team in 2009. And for the two of them to be there through the evolution of a program is something that has kept their passion for both school and game alive.

"We have been a highly competitive team for a long time," said Feldman. "I know we are excited about taking on the challenge of playing some of the best teams in the state."

"I don't really see to much of a difference," said senior lineman Rayce Franco. "It's just a few more guys on the field, but we know the game we need to play. We will play our style, bring our intensity and we will be fine."

Clearwater International competes as an independent after spend much of it's existence in the Florida Christian Athletics for Private and Parochial Schools (FCAPPS) conference.

The school has around 250 kids attending grades K-12, and welcomes all students of all backgrounds. Included in that is 2017 Marshall commit, and team quarterback, Janiero Frankin. There is also an Italian linebacker on the sqaud. That's right, an Italian football player.

"When I came here last summer (from Italy) we quickly formed a family and a brotherhood," said seniro linebacker Julian Baldi. "We are an underdog and we are out to prove something to Florida, and that nation. We want to show everyone what we are all about."

That fiery attitude and passion will be needed. The Knights will take on one of the most talented teams in all the Bay Area - The CCC Marauders - on Friday, September 16. Just don't expect the nights to be fazed by the task.

"We don't back down to anyone," said Chinchar. "We are ready for this challenge."

"I know they are a good team," said Franco. "It's going to be tough, but I think we will win."

The dream is slowly becoming a true reality, but it's certainly coming together in Clearwater for these Knights.